Clays Dance Academy was formerly known as Sue Merrett School of Dance, which Sue successfully ran for 25 years. Sue began dancing from a young age before continuing her vocational training at Bird College, where she gained her ISTD teaching qualifications in Ballet, Tap and Modern. She went on to gain further qualifications, including the highest ISTD teaching qualification of Licentiate in Ballet, Tap, Modern and National Dance. In July 2025, after 25 wonderful years as Principal, Sue decided to step back from the day-to-day running of the school to enjoy more time with her family. She proudly handed the school over to her former student, Sami Clay, while continuing to teach and remain an important part of the Clays Dance Academy. Sami joined the school at just six years old and went on to train at Elmhurst Ballet School in association with Birmingham Royal Ballet. She later danced professionally in France with Compagnie Francis Mauduit, performing in productions including Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, Carmen and Sleeping Beauty. Sami returned to the UK in 2022 to pursue her passion for teaching and began working closely with Sue. Sami now holds her DDE ISTD Teaching Qualifications in Classical Ballet and Modern, as well as a Level 4 Dance Diploma. She is honoured to continue the legacy Sue built, maintaining the welcoming, supportive and family-focused atmosphere that has always been at the heart of the school, while bringing fresh ideas and keeping the school moving with the times. Today, Clays Academy of Dance welcomes around 300 students from the ages of 3 to adult across Southampton/ Eastleigh area in Horton Heath, Fair Oak, Upham, Durley and Botley. We run classes Monday to Saturday, offering a wide range of dance styles for all ages and abilities. Our Classes Pre-School Ballet ISTD Classical Ballet ISTD Modern ISTD Tap ISTD Classical Greek ISTD Jazz Senior Jazz Musical Theatre Contemporary Body Conditioning Adult Ballet Adult Jazz Adult Tap Private Lessons We also offer 30-minute private lessons for students who would like some additional one-to-one support, including those preparing for festivals or working towards specific goals. Our aim is to provide a joyful, inspiring and supportive environment where every dancer feels welcome, builds confidence and is encouraged to reach their full potential. If Clays Academy of Dance sounds like the right place for you or your child, we'd love to hear from you! Please get in touch through our Contact Us page to find out more or arrange a trial lesson. We can't wait to welcome you to the Clays Academy and begin your dance journey with us!